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Dem State Rep Kicks Off Campaign

The optimistic event belied the candidate’s uphill climb.

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Danielle Bernstein

Oct. 18, 2017, 11:26 a.m.

South Carolina Democrats “haven’t elected a governor in nearly two decades.” State Rep. James Smith (D) is hoping to change that after hosting a kickoff rally Tuesday night, at which he “thrilled supporters with promises to fight for public education, expand health care and root out government corruption.”

Regardless, Smith will have to navigate several competing interests in his run: turning out African-American voters, appealing to white progressives, and persuading independents and moderate Republicans (including those who voted for President Trump). Another “key will be fundraising,” as both Republican candidates are far ahead in that regard. (Columbia State)